BBC Sport 360 launches for Rio 2016 Olympics

The BBC has launched BBC Sport 360 – an experimental service bringing Rio 2016 live and on-demand to UK audiences in 360 degree video for the first time.

Sports fans can get closer than ever to the Olympics action and enjoy a new perspective on a range of live sports, including the opening and closing ceremonies, athletics, and a closer-than-ringside view of the boxing.

The BBC Sport 360 service starts on Friday 5 August through a dedicated BBC Sport 360 trial app, available from today on Android, iOS and Samsung Gear VR.

Coverage will also be available online through BBC Taster allowing people to try, rate and give feedback to help the BBC learn from the experimental service.

There will be live 360 video footage of an event each day during the Games, with around 100 hours in total and a choice of up to four different camera angles, plus a daily 360 video highlights package.

“Now, we’re pushing the boundaries once again to bring people closer to the action than ever before. Not everyone can make it to Rio to cheer on Team GB so we’re looking forward to giving sport fans the next best thing.”

The BBC Sport 360 service can be viewed on devices compatible with Samsung VR headsets or on a low cost mobile VR headset using Android or iOS smartphones. Simply download the BBC Sport 360 trial app and slot the phone into the headset to watch live and on-demand coverage.

The 360 video content can also be viewed on your desktop PC on the BBC Taster website without a headset, where you can manually scroll or move your device around the video for a full 360 view.

The FA, BBC, and BT Sport today confirmed the six FA Cup 2018/19 Third Round ties which will be broadcast live on TV. The action gets underway on Friday 4th January as Tottenham travel to the winners of the second round replay between Tranmere Rovers…